Building an Impressive High School Resume

Preparing your resume for college is undoubtedly important, but it is not always an easy task.

India Miraglia

October 17, 2016

Balancing priorities in high school is never easy. How much time do you put into studying? Do you focus on sports or community service?

As a senior in high school I have come to realize how crucial multitasking really is. Preparing your resume for college is undoubtedly important, but it is not always an easy task.

Here are some suggestions to help you to use your high school experiences to build an impressive resume.

Everything Counts

And I mean everything. Every time you join a club, volunteer your time, or win an award you should write it down. Nothing is too small or insignificant. If at a later date you decide that something diminishes your resume instead of enhancing it then feel free it exclude it.

Use this same mindset when deciding what you want to do for your resume. Some activities obviously belong on a resume: math team, a sport, any community service.

However, any hobby that is important to you really does belong on a resume. The point of building a resume is to show off your achievements and capabilities.

Part of this is being unique; colleges look for standouts, not for people who just fall in line with the pack.

Sometimes It Is Quantity…

A rich resume is a good resume. It should show that you are well rounded and willing to become involved with and explore various aspects of life.

According to Purdue Owl, a fairly general resume should include contact information, education, experience, and activities (including honors and outreach).

Make sure the sections outside of your contact information, especially the activities section, are filled up and show diversity.

…Sometimes It Is Quality

It is true that having a broad range of credentials is impressive, but so is having an important role or leadership position in just one area.

For example, I know from peers that student government in my school is a time consuming task. It doesn’t leave a lot of room for extra clubs or activities. However, being a main contributor to student government, like the president for example, is show worthy enough to make an impact.

So don’t worry if you don’t have a ton on your resume, but you are a leader in what you do have; colleges look for students who are able to take charge and work towards the future.

But Don’t Forget…

You should have fun. College is a serious chunk of the rest of your life, but it shouldn’t keep you from enjoying high school now. You only get to go to high school once. Enjoy it. Be involved in your school, do things that you enjoy, associate with people who make you happy. Resumes are important but, remember, so are you.

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